occasionally

adverb

oc·​ca·​sion·​al·​ly ə-ˈkā-zh(ə-)nə-lē How to pronounce occasionally (audio)
Synonyms of occasionally
: on occasion : now and then
dines out occasionally
We occasionally see deer in the field.

Synonyms of occasionally

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Examples of occasionally in a Sentence

Occasionally, things don't go as planned. Cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The tightness of White’s control over his arrangements can occasionally foreclose the sense of chaotic freedom inherent to his more collaborative efforts. — Ryan Meehan, Pitchfork, 26 Oct. 2026 Even seasoned, well-meaning hosts occasionally commit a faux pas. — Kristen Rogers, CNN Money, 26 Oct. 2026 Even the Harlem Globetrotters occasionally shelved their comedic antics for a night and sent out a highly competitive team to take on college basketball’s best. — ABC News, 25 Oct. 2026 But in this one, Mayfield mainly just handed off and occasionally danced after teammates produced big runs. — Scott Fowler, Charlotte Observer, 25 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for occasionally

Word History

Etymology

Middle English occasionaly "on a particular occasion, sometimes," from occasyonal occasional + -ly -ly entry 2

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of occasionally was in the 15th century

Phrases Containing occasionally

Browse Nearby Words

occasionality
occasionally
occasioner
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Cite this Entry

“Occasionally.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/occasionally. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

occasionally

adverb
oc·​ca·​sion·​al·​ly -ē How to pronounce occasionally (audio)
: from time to time
occasionally goes to the movies
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